#SaturdaySeries

Saturday Series is a day-long succession of experimental workshops rooted in the craft of writing, hip hop, and new journalism.  Each workshop runs on Saturdays from October to May with a set of culminating opportunities involving publication, mixtape release, and portfolio development.  Saturday Series includes:

10am – 12pm: Chicago Beat—a new journalism and publication

1pm – 3pm: Check the Method –poetry and hip hop spoken word

4pm – 6pm: WreckShop– hip hop, emcee, and beat making

 

Check The Method offers world-class instruction in poetry and hip hop spoken word led by Artistic Director, Kevin Coval, and Teaching Artist, Jamila Woods. Participants can expect to be exposed to the work of world-reknown poets, engage in critical conversation with one another about source materials, and explore a variety of style and forms of poetry.

“Teaching Artists at Check the Method helped my students find their own authorial voice, inspired them to practice, and gave them the opportunity to display it”– 10th Grade English Teacher, Urban Prep Bronzeville.

“Check the Method challenges me to become a better writer and gives me the space to explore what it means to be an artist…people support you here.” – Freshman, Columbia College

Emcee WreckShop is dedicated to the craft of writing, emceeing, and beat-making.  This workshop is led by Young Chicago Authors Core Teaching Artist, Adam Levin, and other guest artist. WreckShop includes both a rigorous writing focus as well as a studio time to record original work.   Participants are offered a series of performance opportunities to feature their work throughout the year.

“I would never have considered myself a rapper.  WreckShop made me one.” – 11th grade student, Whitney Young Magnet School

 

General Information

• Saturday Series is a safe space meaning no racist, sexist, homophobic or anti-group language is allowed.
• Although programs are targeted at teens, everyone is welcome at our workshops.
• Participants are welcome to hang out at YCA after workshops as long as a staff member is present.
• Saturday Series programs are free.

 

For more information about #WordPlay please contact our Director of Programs Anna Festa at anna@youngchicagoauthors.org or 773.486.4331